Digit mounted device for launching projectiles

ABSTRACT

A finger-mounted device for launching a projectile in response to a flick of a finger by a user. The finger-mounted device may comprise a securing means for securing a launcher to the finger of the user. The securing means may comprise a strap, loop, or cinch. The finger-mounted device may further comprise a launch guide extending outwardly from a base member. A projectile may be mounted onto or into the launch guide. The projectile is launched in response to the user flicking the finger, using the thumb as a tensioning means. The projectile may take a wide variety of forms.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/486,187, filed Apr. 12, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/506,508, filed Oct. 3, 2014, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/887,215, filed Oct. 4,2013, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in theirentireties, including but not limited to those portions thatspecifically appear hereinafter, the incorporation by reference beingmade with the following exception: In the event that any portion of theabove-referenced applications are inconsistent with this application,this application supersedes said above-referenced applications.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND 1. The Field of the Present Disclosure

The present disclosure relates generally to manually operated devicesfor launching projectiles and more particularly, but not necessarilyentirely, to digit mounted, and more specifically finger mounted,devices for launching projectiles for entertainment or other purposes.

2. Related Art

Various devices have been devised for allowing a user to launch aprojectile. For example, slingshots are devices that allow a user tolaunch small projectiles using elastic bands or tubing. Spear-throwers,or atlatls, are tools that allow users to use leverage to achievegreater velocities when launching a spear. Other types of manuallyoperated throwing devices are also available, including an elongated andcurved ball-throwing devices. Despite these devices, improvements arestill being sought for novel and unique devices for launchingprojectiles that can be used for entertainment, target practice,hunting, and self-protection and other purposes and functions.

The features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forthin the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from thedescription, or may be learned by the practice of the present disclosurewithout undue experimentation. The features and advantages of thepresent disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of theinstruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appendedclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent froma consideration of the subsequent detailed description presented inconnection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of an index finger with a single-shaft launch guideembodiment;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of an index finger with a single-shaft launch guideembodiment;

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a second finger with a dual-shaft launch guideembodiment;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a second finger with a single-shaft launch guideembodiment;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the present invention attached to thedistal phalanx of a finger with a single-shaft launch guide embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a view of a palm of a hand and fingers labeled with thedirectional nomenclature used herein;

FIG. 14 depicts a projectile launch device according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 15A-15E depict various projectiles according to embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 16 depicts an isometric view of a projectile launching deviceaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 depicts a side view of a projectile launching device accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 depicts a top view of a projectile launching device according toan embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 depicts a bottom view of a projectile launching device accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 depicts a side view of a projectile launching device with astrap according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 depicts a projectile launching device installed on a finger of auser according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 depicts a projectile launching device installed on a finger of auser according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 23 depicts a projectile launching device installed on a finger of auser according to an embodiment of the present disclosure

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles inaccordance with the disclosure, reference will now be made to theembodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will beused to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that nolimitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Anyalterations and further modifications of the inventive featuresillustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles ofthe disclosure as illustrated herein, which would normally occur to oneskilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure,are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure claimed.

In describing and claiming the present disclosure, the followingterminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set outbelow. As used in this specification and the appended claims, thesingular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the terms“comprising,” “including,” “having,” “containing,” “characterized by,”and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended termsthat do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

As used herein, a “flick” or a “fling” constitutes digit movement wherea digit, such as a finger, is curled up in the palmar direction, distalend pointing toward the proximal, then quickly moved or unfurled suchthat the distal end of the digit or finger extends toward the distaldirectional ne. Additionally, when a digit or finger is curled up in thepalmar direction, distal end pointing toward the proximal, the thumb (orother digit) can be used as a tension and release mechanism when thecurled up finger is tensioned against the thumb, and the thumb is moved,the curled up tensioned finger snaps quickly out toward the distaldirectional plane in a “flicking” or “flinging” motion. While thepresent disclosure utilizes a finger as an exemplary digit, it will beappreciated that other digits can be used in accordance with theprinciples of the present disclosure. Moreover, any structure capable ofperforming the herein described function of a digit is to be consideredwithin its scope.

As used herein, the terms “shaft” and “tube” are used herein to describethe cooperating cylindrical members or the embodiments. In theembodiments within the present disclosure, the terms may also includenon-cylindrical members, such as oblong, square, or other shapes ofelongated bars and bores for allowing the projectiles to be mounted onand to slide along the launcher until release to a trajectory. FIG. 13depicts a human hand labeled with the directional terminology usedherein.

Applicants have discovered a novel finger-mounted device for launchingprojectiles using the natural flicking or flinging motion of a finger.The device may include a launch guide to hold a projectile in placeduring a launching action. The launch guide may extend from an end of afinger. In an embodiment, the launch guide comprises a shaft or tube(solid or hollow) in which a bore in the projectile is slid down overthe shaft to secure the projectile to the launch guide during launchpreparation. Upon launch execution, a flicking/flinging motion isinitiated and the projectile is held in place until the centrifugalforce overcomes the forces holding the projectile to the launch guide,at which point the projectile is released from the launch guide towardthe distal directional plane. It will be appreciated that the forcesholding the projectile onto the launch guide may include frictional andvacuum forces. Additionally, as the projectile slides off the launchguide during the flicking/flinging motion, the launch guide helps todirect the trajectory of said projectile. In an embodiment, the launchguide includes different angles of the launch guide shaft in relation tothe finger/fingers to which the launcher is secured. Each differentangle of the launch guide shaft, in relation to the finger or fingers towhich it is secured, may alter the flight properties of the projectileduring launch, including but not limited to projectile velocity, pointof projectile release from the launch guide and projectile trajectory.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a system 100 for launching aprojectile according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thesystem 100 may include a hand 102 of a user. The system 100 may furtherinclude a launch device 200 mounted on one of the fingers of the hand102, such as the index finger 104, but other digits or fingers may beused in accordance with the present disclosure. The launch device 200may include a securing member 202 and a launch guide 204. Loaded ontothe launch guide 204 may be a projectile 206.

The securing member 202 secures the device 200 onto the tip of thefinger 104. In an embodiment, the securing member 202 comprises a strap.In an embodiment, the securing member 202 comprises a strap having ahook and latch, or hook and loop, fastening means. In an embodiment, thesecuring member 202 may comprise one of a buckle, snap, and fastener, orother device, for securing the device 200 onto the tip of the finger104. In an embodiment, the securing member 202 comprises a glove. In anembodiment, the securing member 202 comprises a wrist strap connected toa finger insert, similar to an archer's glove.

In an embodiment, the securing member 202 may include but is not limitedto the following:

A. Strapping Mechanism

-   -   A single strap or multiple straps are used to secure the        launcher to a finger and/or fingers;    -   Strap/straps may be part of the launcher, attached to the        launcher and/or surround the launcher in order to secure the        launcher to a finger and/or fingers;    -   Strap/straps can be fastened around finger/fingers and secured        via closed loop by any number of mechanisms including but not        limited to Velcro® (or Velcro-like equivalent), belt-like (belt        hole, piston etc.);    -   Strap/straps can be fastened around finger/fingers and secured        to the launcher via open slots that pinch the strap between        opposing members;    -   Straps are fed through the open launcher slots to produce a        loop;    -   Finger/fingers are placed inside the loop; and,    -   Strap ends may be pulled to tighten the loop around        finger/fingers.

B. Sleeve Mechanism

-   -   One or multiple sleeves is/are slipped down over the        finger/fingers to secure the launcher to the finger and/or        fingers; and,    -   Sleeve/sleeves may be part of the launcher, attached to the        launcher and/or surround the launcher in order to secure the        launcher to a finger and/or fingers.

C. Clip Mechanism

-   -   One or multiple clips are used to secure the launcher to a        finger and/or fingers; and,    -   Clip/clips may be part of the launcher, attached to the launcher        and/or surround the launcher in order to secure the launcher to        a finger and/or fingers.

D. Ring Mechanism

-   -   One ring or multiple rings is/are slipped down over the        finger/fingers to secure the launcher to the finger and/or        fingers; and,    -   Ring/rings may be part of the launcher, attached to the launcher        and/or surround the launcher in order to secure the launcher to        a finger and/or fingers.    -   E. Finger Cot/Finger Sock    -   A finger cot/finger sock is slipped down over the distal phalanx        to secure the launcher to the finger and/or fingers; and,    -   Finger cot/finger sock may be part of the launcher, attached to        the launcher and/or surround the launcher in order to secure the        launcher to a finger and/or fingers.

In an embodiment, the launch guide 204 may comprise a shaft. In anembodiment, the launch guide 204 can be either removably affixed orpermanently affixed to the securing member 202. In an embodiment, thelaunch guide 204 may comprise a shaft having a diameter smaller than abore in a projectile. In an embodiment, the launch guide 204 maycomprise a launch guide adapter that slips down over a shaft for varyingthe diameter of the launch guide 204 to accommodate bores of varyingsizes. The launch guide adapter can be secured using a wide range ofmechanisms, including a threaded mechanism, a clipping mechanism, or anadhesive mechanism.

The projectile 206 may be loaded onto the launch guide 204 by insertinga bore of the projectile 206 onto the launch guide 204. The bore may ormay not extend entirely through the projectile 206. In an embodiment,the projectile 206 may have various configurations, including but notlimited to:

-   -   Ball    -   Disc    -   Boomerang    -   Airplane/glider (with aerodynamic surfaces shaped to produce        desired flight patterns)    -   Spaceship    -   Dart—Soft    -   Dart—Velcro    -   Dart—Sharp    -   Dart—Suction Cup    -   Likenesses of people (anthropomorphic), animals, fantasy        creatures, and other objects real or managed    -   Bead    -   Bearing    -   Throwing star (soft and hard)    -   Bird    -   Missile or missile-like    -   Paint ball    -   Water balloon    -   Whistling device    -   Spinning (i.e., spiral structure with wings which spins on axis)    -   Asymmetrically weighted (to produce non-linear motion)    -   Gyroscopic (containing one or more gyroscopes)

In an embodiment, as the projectile 206 may be a child toy, a teen toy,an adult toy, or a pet toy. FIGS. 15A-15E depict various embodiments ofprojectiles according to embodiments of the present disclosure, wherethe dashed lines depict an insertion slot for the launch guide 204. FIG.15A depicts a disc-shaped projectile. FIG. 15B depicts a dart shapedprojectile. FIG. 15C depicts a dart shaped projectile with fins. FIG.15D depicts a plane shaped projectile with wings. FIG. 15E depicts aspherical or ball shaped projectile. In accordance with the presentdisclosure, some projectiles may weigh less then about 10 grams, lessthen about 100 grams or less than about 1000 grams.

As shown in FIG. 1, after the projectile 206 has been loaded onto thelaunch guide 204, the finger 104 may be placed in a pre-launch positionindicated by the reference numeral 104A. In particular, the thumb 106may be utilized to restrain the finger 104 in the position 104A. Theuser then exerts a force against the thumb 106 using the tip of thefinger 104. The finger 104 is then released from the position 104A andis “flicked” to the position 104B. It will be appreciated that theflicking or flinging motion of the finger 104 causes the projectile 206to be launched from the launch guide 204.

In an embodiment, the device 200 may be formed of:

-   -   Plastic or other polymer    -   Carbon fiber    -   Epoxy    -   Wood    -   Metal    -   Any other material or combination thereof known to those skilled        in the pertinent art.

In an embodiment, the projectile 206 may be formed of:

-   -   Foam (such as a solid, spongy cellular material manufactured        when a polyester resin reacts with another compound in the        presence of CO2 with the gas creating open pockets within the        polyurethane that make the material soft and light, such as that        material available under the trademark NERF®)

In an embodiment, the device 200 may be utilized to play games,including:

-   -   Target shooting    -   Darts—(including with hook and loop fasteners, such as that        available under the VELCRO® trademark, and suction cups, or        sticky substance)    -   Darts—(including with a sharp penetrating tip)    -   Wall bounce    -   Bocce    -   Paint ball    -   Water balloon fight    -   Catch    -   Distance Shooting    -   Projectile Golf

In an embodiment, the launch guide 204 may comprise:

-   -   Rod/shaft/tube/I-beam, or any suitable shape which those skilled        in the art can arrive at using the present disclosure    -   Solid or hollow shaft    -   Track    -   Trebuchet-like structure to provide force    -   Jai alai-like structure to provide force    -   Lacrosse stick-like structure to provide force    -   Clay pigeon thrower-like structure to provide force    -   Tensioned spring release, i.e., spring load the shaft such that        when the projectile is pushed down on the shaft, the spring is        compressed and the projectile engagement system docks to the        projectile to hold it firmly in place, where the release of the        spring tension acts to accelerate and/or assist the projectile        launch    -   Whip like-structure to provide force    -   Hinged structure to provide force

In an embodiment, the projectile 206 may be held on the launch guide 204by one of the following:

-   -   Friction    -   Mechanical pressure and/or tension or clamping    -   Magnetic tension (such as inclusion of magnets at tip of launch        guide and a point of contact inside the projectile to provide        force)    -   Hook and loop fastener to provide tension

Referring now to FIG. 2, where like reference numerals depict likecomponents, there is shown the thumb 106 in a tensioning position on thefinger 104.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a launch device 250 attached tothe distal phalanx of a second finger 110 with a dual-shaft launch guideembodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guides 252 are positioned onthe dorsal side of the finger 110 and tension of the thumb 106 isapplied at the distal end of the distal phalanx.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a launch device 300 attached tothe distal phalanx of a second finger 110 with a single-shaft launchguide embodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 302 is positionedon the dorsal side of the finger 110 and tension of the thumb 106 isapplied at the distal end of the distal phalanx.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a launch device 350 attached tothe distal phalanx of a second finger 110 with a single-shaft launchguide embodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 352 is positionedon the palmar side of the finger 110. A cylindrical projectile 354 isshown loaded onto the launch guide 352.

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a launch device 400 attached tothe distal phalanx of a second finger 110 with a single-shaft launchguide embodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 402 is positionedon the palmar side of the finger 110. A spherical projectile 404 isshown loaded onto the launch guide 402.

Referring now to FIG. 7, there is shown a launch device 400 attached tothe distal phalanx of a second finger 110 with a single-shaft launchguide embodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 402 is positionedon the palmar side of the finger 110. A cylindrical projectile 404A isshown. loaded onto the launch guide 402. The projectile 404A may includestabilization fins.

Referring now to FIG. 8, there is shown a launch device 400 attached tothe distal phalanx of a second finger 110 with a single-shaft launchguide embodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 402 is positionedon the palmar side of the finger 110. A spherical projectile 404B isshown loaded onto the launch guide 402.

Referring now to FIG. 9, there is shown a launch device 400 attached tothe distal phalanx of a finger 110 with a single-shaft launch guideembodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 402 is positioned on thedorsal side of the finger 110.

Referring now to FIG. 10, there is shown a launch device 450 attached tothe distal phalanx of a finger 110 with a single-shaft launch guideembodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 452 is positioned on thedorsal side of the finger 110. The launch guide 452 is secured to thefinger 110 using a dual rings 454 and 456.

Referring now to FIG. 11, there is shown a launch device 500 attached tothe distal phalanx of a finger 110 with a single-shaft launch guideembodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 502 is positioned on thepalmar side of the finger 110.

Referring now to FIG. 12, there is shown a launch device 550 attached tothe distal phalanx of a finger 110 with a single-shaft launch guideembodiment. In an embodiment, the launch guide 552 is positioned on thepalmar side of the finger 110.

Referring to FIG. 14, there is shown a projectile launch device 320according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The launch device320 may include a base member 322. The base member 322 may include aslot 326 for receiving a securing member (not shown) configured andadapted to mount the base member 322 onto a finger of a user. Thesecuring member may take the form of the securing members describedherein, including a strap installed in the slot 326. Extending from thebase member 322 is a launch guide 324. The launch guide 324 may form anangle, α, with an axis extending in the same direction as the pointingdirection of a finger that is represented by the 0° dashed line. In anembodiment, the angle, α, is between 0° and 25°. In an embodiment, theangle, α, is about 10°. In an embodiment, the angle, α, is any angle.

Referring now to FIGS. 16-19, there is shown a projectile launch device1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device1000 may include a base member 1002 having an elongated launch guide ortrack 1004 extending therefrom. In an embodiment, the launch guide 1004may have a length, D1, between one and three inches as shown in FIG. 17.In an embodiment, the launch guide 1004 may have a length, D1, of abouttwo inches. It will be appreciated that the length, D1, of the launchguide 1004 may be any suitable length in an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

In an embodiment, a length, D2, of the base member 1002 is between oneand three inches. In an embodiment, the length, D2, of the base member1002 is between one and one half inches and two and one half inches. Itwill be appreciated that the length, D2, of the base member 1002 may beany suitable length in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As best seen in FIGS. 16 and 19, a bottom surface 1006 of the basemember 1002 may be concave. The bottom surface 1006 may extend from aproximal end 1008 to a distal end 1010 of the base member 1002. Inparticular, the bottom surface 1006 may be concave in order to receive afinger of a user. It will be appreciated that the concave shape of thebottom surface 1006 will allow the base member 1002 to more securelyattach to a finger of a user. In an embodiment, the bottom surface 1006may be any shape, including flat, concave or convex.

As best seen in FIGS. 16-18, the base member 1002 may include a centralrib 1012. Disposed on either side of the central rib 1012 may be a strapslot 1014. In an embodiment, the strap slots 1014 are configured andadapted for receiving a strap (not shown). In an embodiment, the strapmay be fabricated from an elastic, or non-elastic, material. In anembodiment, the strap may include a pair of straps. Opposing members1016 of the slots 1014 may define a gap 1018 that facilitates strapinsertion into the slots 1014.

In an embodiment, formed in the launch guide 1004 may be one or moregrooves 1020. In an embodiment, the grooves 1020 may extend along theentire length of the launch guide 1004. In an embodiment, the grooves1020 are linear. In an embodiment, the grooves 1020 are non-linear. Itwill be appreciated that the grooves 1020 may serve to reduce oreliminate vacuum pressure when a projectile (not shown) is launched. Inaddition, it will be appreciated that the grooves 1020 may service toreduce or eliminate friction between the projectile and the launch guide1004. In an embodiment, the launch guide 1004 may include rifling toimpart spin to the projectile during launch in order to add stability tothe flight of the projectile. In particular, the rifling may serve togyroscopically stabilize the projectile, improving its aerodynamicstability and accuracy. In an embodiment, the grooves 1020 may havemultiple width, depth and orientations. In an embodiment, the grooves1020 may be one of straight or helical or some other shape.

Referring to FIG. 16, in an embodiment, a distal end 1022 of the launchguide 1004 is one of convex or concave. In an embodiment, the launchguide 1004 contains one or more grooves 1020 and the distal end 1022 isconvex. It will be appreciated that the combination of grooves 1020 andthe convex end of the launch guide 1004, together enable airflow up thelaunch guide 1004 and over the distal end 1022 during projectile launch.The combined effect of the grooves 1020 and a convex shape at the distalend 1022 is to minimize or eliminate vacuum pressure during projectilelaunch and increase the projectile launch velocity.

In accordance with the present disclosure, the launch velocity may be inthe range from about 1 meter per second to about 120 meters per second,from about 2 to about 60 meters per second and from about 4 to about 20meters per second.

In an embodiment, the launch guide 1004 contains one or more grooves1020 and the distal end 1022 is concave. The combination of the grooves1020 and the concave shape of the distal end 1022 together enableairflow up the launch guide 1004 and over the distal end 1022 duringprojectile launch. Thus, the combined effect of grooves 1020 and aconcave distal end 1022 is intended to minimize or eliminate vacuumpressure during projectile launch and increase the projectile launchvelocity.

Referring to FIG. 20, where like reference numerals depict likecomponents, the device 1000 is shown with a securing member 1030 mountedin the strap slots 1014. The securing member 1030 is maintained in thestray slots 1014 by virtue of a friction fit, such as by pinching orclamping. The securing member 1030 may form a looped portion 1032configured and dimensioned for receiving a finger of a user in a tightor friction fit. It will be appreciated that the securing member 1030may take various forms including those described above in relation tosecuring member 202. It will be appreciated that the securing member1030 may be flexible or non-flexible.

Referring now to FIG. 21, there is depicted a projectile launchingdevice 1500 installed on a middle finger 1502 of a user. The thumb 1504of the user may be utilized to tension the finger 1502 prior to launch.The device 1500 may include a solid shaft member 1506 extendingtherefrom. A projectile 1508 may be installed onto the solid shaftmember 1506 by sliding a bore 1510 formed in the projectile 1508 overthe solid shaft member 1506.

Referring now to FIG. 22, there is depicted a projectile launchingdevice 1600 installed on a middle finger 1602 of a user. The thumb 1604of the user may be utilized to tension the finger 1602 prior to launch.The device 1600 may include a hollow shaft member 1606 extendingtherefrom. A projectile 1608 may be installed into the hollow shaftmember 1606 by inserting the projectile 1608 into an opening 1610 thatleads into the interior of the hollow shaft member 1606. Referring nowto FIG. 23, there is depicted a projectile launching device 1700installed on a finger 1702 of a user. The device 1700 may include a basemember 1704. The device 1700 may further include a shaft member 1706extending from the base member 1704. A projectile may be installed ontothe shaft member 1706. A securing member 1708 may secure the base member1704 to the finger 1702. In an embodiment, the securing member 1708 maycomprise a strap or another securing member, including the typesdisclosed herein. As can be observed, the securing member 1708 mayextend from the distal phalanx, over the distal inter-phalangeal joint,and to the middle phalanx of the finger 1702. The securing member 1708may terminate just prior to the proximal inter-phalangeal joint.

In an embodiment, the present invention may include a thumb grip forenhanced flicking or flinging motion. The thumb grip is a component thatwill effectively aid in the flicking/flinging motion by allowing theuser to securely hold a finger in the cocked position with the thumb,easily and quickly release a finger from the cocked position to executethe flicking/flinging action, and more accurately direct the projectileflight path. For example, if the user holds a finger in the cockedposition with the thumb, whereas the thumb is positioned on the dorsalside of said finger either on the distal phalanges, intermediatephalanges or some combination thereof, the flicking/flinging motion, andhence the projectile flight path, will be altered due to the modifiedarc and/or motion path of the flicking/flinging finger as a result ofreleasing the thumb tension. Using a thumb grip to securely hold afinger in the cocked position enables a uniform arc of the fingerengaged in the flicking/flinging action when the thumb tension isreleased. A more uniform arc of the finger engaged in theflicking/flinging action should result in more accurate projectiletargeting and increased projectile velocity.

In an embodiment, the thumb grip may incorporate a springtension/release mechanism. This mechanism will effectively aid in theflicking/flinging motion by allowing the user to securely hold a fingerin the cocked position With the thumb, easily and quickly release afinger from the cocked position to execute the flicking/flinging action,more accurately direct the projectile flight path, and increaseprojectile release velocity with the spring tension/release mechanism.For example, in an embodiment, when the launcher is seated on the dorsalside of a distal and/or intermediate phalanges, the thumb grip ispositioned at the distal end of the finger (and may extend beyond thedistal end of said finger) to provide a platform by which the thumb cansupply tension to the cocked finger/fingers engaged in theflicking/flinging action. When the thumb is positioned on the thumbgrip, the hinged and spring tensioned launch guide is cocked in thepalmer direction such that when the thumb is released, the springtension is released causing the launch guide to quickly snap in thedorsal direction at the same time the finger is snapped in the distaldirectional plane as a result of the flicking/flinging motion. Thecombination of the flicking/flinging action and the thumb grip springtension release mechanism will cause a net increase in projectilerelease velocity as compared to the flicking/flinging action alone.

In alternate embodiment includes structures for producing a loud soundwhen the spring tensioned thumb grip is released to launch theprojectile.

It will be appreciated that the suitable structure and apparatusdisclosed herein is merely one example of a means for launching aprojectile, and it should be appreciated that any structure, apparatusor system for launching a projectile which performs functions the sameas, or equivalent to, those disclosed herein are intended to fall withinthe scope of a means for launching a projectile, including thosestructures, apparatus or systems for launching a projectile which arepresently known, or which may become available in the future. Also,structures, apparatus or systems which functions the same as, orequivalently to, a means for launching a projectile falls within thescope of this element.

It will be appreciated that the suitable structure and apparatusdisclosed herein is merely one example of a means for mounting a launchguide to a finger, and it should be appreciated that any structure,apparatus or system for mounting the required structures which performsfunctions the same as, or equivalent to, those disclosed herein areintended to fall within the scope of a means for mounting, includingthose structures, apparatus or systems for mounting structures to adigit which are presently known, or which may become available in thefuture. Also, structure, apparatus or systems which functions the sameas, or equivalently to, a means for mounting falls within the scope ofthis element.

In the foregoing Detailed Description, various features of the presentdisclosure are grouped together in one or more single embodiments forthe purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure isnot to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimeddisclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each ofthe following claims. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventiveaspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosedembodiments. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated intothis Detailed Description by this reference, with each claim standing onits own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.

It is to be understood that the above-described arrangements are onlyillustrative of the application of the principles of the presentdisclosure. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may bedevised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spiritand scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims are intendedto cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the presentdisclosure has been shown in the drawings and described above withparticularity and detail, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to,variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner ofoperation, assembly and use may be made without departing from theprinciples and concepts set forth herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for launching a projectile, saidapparatus comprising: a base member; a securing member configured anddimensioned to secure the base member to a digit of a user; and anelongated launch guide extending from the base member; wherein theelongated launch guide is configured and dimensioned to receive theprojectile; wherein the elongated launch guide is configured anddimensioned to release the projectile in response to a flicking motionof the digit of the user.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein theelongated launch guide is one of a solid shaft and a hollow shaft. 3.The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more grooves formedin the elongated launch guide.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein theelongated launch guide comprises a distal end located furthest from thebase member, wherein the distal end is one of concave shaped and convexshaped.
 5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the one or more grooves areone of linear and non-linear.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thebase member comprises one or more slots configured and dimensioned forreceiving the securing member.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thesecuring member comprises one of a finger sleeve, a clip, a ring, afinger cot, a sock, and a strap.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe securing member defines a loop configured and dimensioned forreceiving the digit of the user, wherein the digit is a finger of theuser.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base member comprises abottom surface, wherein the bottom surface is concave.
 10. apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the elongated launch guide defines an angle with anaxis of the digit, wherein. the angle is about 10°.
 11. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the projectile comprises a bore, wherein the elongatedlaunch guide is configured and dimensioned to be installed into saidbore.
 12. A launch system, said launch system comprising: afinger-mounted launch device comprising: a base member, a securingmember configured and dimensioned to secure the base member to a fingerof a user, and an elongated launch guide extending from the base member;and a projectile; wherein the elongated launch guide is configured anddimensioned to receive the projectile in a pre-launch configuration;wherein the elongated launch guide is configured and dimensioned tolaunch the projectile in response to a flicking motion of the finger ofthe user.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the projectile is one ofspherical and cylindrical.
 14. The system of claim 12, wherein theprojectile comprises one of fins and wings.
 15. The system of claim 12,wherein the projectile is one structure selected from a dart and a disk.16. The system of claim 12, wherein the elongated launch guide is one ofa solid shaft and a hollow shaft.
 17. The system of claim 12, furthercomprising one or more grooves formed in the elongated launch guide. 18.The system of claim 12, wherein the elongated launch guide comprises adistal end located furthest from the base member, wherein the distal endis one of concave shaped and convex shaped.
 19. The system of claim 17,wherein the one or more grooves are one selected from a linear grove andnon-linear groove.
 20. The system of claim 12, wherein the securingmember defines a loop configured and dimensioned for receiving thefinger of the user.
 21. The system of claim 12, wherein the base membercomprises a concave bottom surface.
 22. The system of claim 12, whereinthe elongated launch guide defines an angle with an axis of a finger,wherein. the angle is about 10°.
 23. A method of launching a projectile,said method comprising: securing a launch device to a finger of a user;loading a projectile onto the launch device; and, launching theprojectile from the launch device into flight in response to the userflicking the finger.
 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the launchdevice comprises an elongated launch guide; wherein the projectilecomprises a bore configured and dimensioned to receive the elongatedlaunch guide.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the elongated launchguide comprises a shaft.
 26. The method of claim 23, wherein securingthe launch device to the finger of the user comprises securing thelaunch device to the finger of the user using a securing member.
 27. Themethod of claim 26, wherein the securing member is one selected from thegroup consisting of a strap, loop and cinch.
 28. The method of claim 23,wherein the launch device comprises a concave bottom surface.
 29. Themethod of claim 24, wherein the elongated launch guide defines an anglewith an axis of the finger, wherein the angle is about 10°.
 30. Themethod of claim 23, wherein the projectile is one or more of spherical,cylindrical, finned, and winged.
 31. A launch system, said launch systemcomprising: a lightweight projectile; means for mounting the projectileto a finger of a user; and means for launching the projectile intoflight in response to a flicking motion of the finger of the user. 32.The launch system of claim 31, wherein the projectile is one ofspherical and cylindrical.
 33. The launch system of claim 31, whereinthe projectile is comprises a projectile selected from the groupscomprising projectiles with fins and projectiles with wings.
 34. Thelaunch system of claim 31, wherein the projectile is one selected fromthe groups consisting of a dart and a disk.
 35. The launch system ofclaim 31, wherein the means for mounting comprises a base member and asecuring member.
 36. The launch system of claim 31, wherein the meansfor launching comprises a shaft.
 37. The launch system of claim 36,wherein the shaft comprises a means for reducing a vacuum between it andthe projectile.
 38. The launch system of claim 37, wherein the shaftcomprises a distal end, wherein the distal end is one of concave shapedand convex shaped.
 39. The launch system of claim 31, wherein theprojectile comprises a bore.
 40. The launch system of claim 31, whereinthe means for mounting comprises a concave surface.